GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers Foundation gave more money to fewer organizations this year, and next year it'll do it again, to an entirely new batch of recipients.

The foundation on Tuesday awarded $800,000 to 213 civic and charitable organizations across Wisconsin that deal with the elderly, homelessness, human services and hunger. The foundation hands out grants annually, but under new rules beginning this year.

"We were able to increase the amount we give to each agency and reduce the amount of work required by trustees," said Jerry Ganoni, foundation chairman.

It did so by awarding grants for specific purposes over a three-year cycle. Organizations can receive money in only one of the three years.

In 2018, the focus will be arts and culture, athletics and education. In 2019, the focus will be animal welfare, civic and community improvement, the environment, and health and wellness, including drug and alcohol abuse and domestic violence prevention.

"Each charity received a little more money now," said Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy. "It allows us to be more focused."

Including its previously announced $250,000 impact grants to CP and the Green Bay Area Public School District, the foundation awarded $1.3 million in grants this year. It has awarded $8.5 million to charitable causes since the foundation was established in 1986.

The Packers added $5 million to the foundation each of the last several years, bringing its total endowment to $30 million. Murphy said he expects the team will continue to make contributions to the foundation.